The popular tourist destination of Bodega Bay is located about an hour and a half north of San Francisco and about 20 miles west of Santa Rosa. Bodega Bay covers 10 miles of the Pacific Coast and has approximately 1400 residents.
 
The area has always attracted people from all backgrounds from Pomo and Miwok Indians, Mexican ranchers, and European Settlers to hunters, fisherman, and merchants from all over. The town was once a booming shipping port and point of trade.
 
The abundance of wildlife in the ocean and bay as well as on land have historically made Bodega Bay a very popular location. Bodega Bay is one of the most spectacular spots for bird watching in Sonoma County with around 200 species of birds sighted. Egrets, hawks, herons, and flocks of pelicans, are common sights as well as many rarer species. Harbor Seals are frequently seen along the shores as well as sea otters looking for a meal.
 
Fishing is very prominent with a variety of catches including Dungeness Crab, Salmon, Halibut, and Ling Cod. There are many charter boats to do some fishing or take a whale watching tour and view some of the 10,000 grey whales who migrate along the Pacific each year.
 
On the 16 beautiful public beaches one can stroll along and pick up shells and rocks, check out tide pools, surf, kayak, or just lounge in the sand and enjoy the views. Bodega Bay is also famous for its amazing fresh seafood and has many restaurants from fine dining to fish and chips. For the golfer, The Links at Bodega Harbor offers a Scottish style course with incomparable views.